Remembering Ivor Robson: The Legendary Voice of The Open Championship

The golf world mourns the loss of an iconic figure, Ivor Robson, whose voice became synonymous with The Open Championship for over four decades. On Tuesday, the legendary Open Championship announcer passed away at the age of 83, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that will be forever etched in the hearts of players and fans alike.
Hailing from Moffat, a small town in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, Ivor Robson first started his journey with The Open in 1975, coinciding with Tom Watson’s historic victory at Carnoustie. Taking on the role of the official starter, Robson’s distinctive voice would go on to introduce a staggering 18,995 players at golf’s oldest major event, as reported by the BBC.
Martin Slumbers, CEO of the R&A, expressed his heartfelt sentiments, stating, “As an official starter at The Open for over 40 years, his voice was instantly recognizable and synonymous with the Championship for players and millions of golf fans worldwide.” Robson’s popularity and respect amongst the golfing community were undeniable, and his passing elicited an outpouring of tributes and condolences from renowned figures in the sport.
Robson’s retirement came after the 2015 Open Championship at St. Andrews, where Zach Johnson emerged victorious in a playoff, marking the end of an era. Interestingly, Robson’s career was bookended by two thrilling playoffs that left lasting memories in the hearts of golf enthusiasts.
The impact of Ivor Robson went beyond his vocal prowess on the first tee. His unique ability to build anticipation and create an atmosphere added to the magic of The Open Championship. Players, including the likes of Tiger Woods, expressed their gratitude and memories of Robson’s role in making their appearances at The Open truly unforgettable.
The golfing community will forever cherish the voice that welcomed them to The Open throughout the years. Ivor Robson’s legacy is one of professionalism, passion, and an unwavering dedication to his craft. His unmistakable voice and infectious happiness will continue to resonate at The Open’s first tee, leaving an indelible mark on the tournament’s history.
As we bid farewell to the legendary Ivor Robson, we remember a man who brought joy, excitement, and a sense of occasion to every player and fan of The Open Championship. His contributions to the sport will never be forgotten, and his voice will forever echo through the fairways of golf’s most cherished event.
This post “Remembering Ivor Robson: The Legendary Voice of The Open Championship” was published with full copyrights permissions obtained from the Sports Today Magazine.